Thailand | Thailand Discovery with Northern Encounter
Thailand is full of pleasant contradictions and its modern charms interweave its captivating history. This is evidenced in escaping the thriving streets of Bangkok to its sparkling Grand Palace or a cruise on the tranquil river. Relax in a hidden jungle retreat perched on the edge of the river, or get off the beaten path and explore the Sukhothai Historical Park by bicycle. Finish in delightful Chiang Mai, a perfect blend of modern style and traditional culture, or continue on for a remarkable glimpse of the lives of the hilltribe people.
| Duration: | 15 Days |
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| Tour Code: | ITW135 |
| Trip Style: | Moderate - 3 star |
| Departure Dates: | 26 Nov 2011, 17 Dec 2011, 31 Dec 2011 |
| Price: | Please Contact Us |
| Single Supplement: | $700 |
| Places you'll visit: |
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| Highlights: |
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Ideal for Solo Travellers
This small group journey is the perfect way for solo travellers to experience Asia. The style of travel means that you will experience Asia as a group of friends, not as part of an anonymous coach-load. Join your western tour leader and fellow travellers for an evening meal or sunset drink, or strike out on your own. The choice is always yours. This tour generally attracts a mix of couples, friends and solo travellers. The group never exceeds 16 passengers, which means you will always have the chance to get to know your fellow travellers.
If you don't want to pay a single supplement you can choose to share and pay the twin-share price. If there isn't one other person of the same sex willing to share on your departure, you will stay in a single room at no extra cost. Alternatively, you can ensure a room to yourself by paying a single supplement.
Trip Details
SEASONAL PRICE RANGE: $2,865 to $2,945
Single Supplement: $700
GROUP SIZE: Max 16
DAYS 1-2 - BANGKOK
On arrival in Bangkok, transfer to your hotel. This evening, enjoy a welcome drink with your tour leader and the small group you will share your journey with. A walking tour immerses you in the excitement of the streets of Bangkok, unveiling the sparkling Grand Palace and peaceful Wat Pho, before a cruise on the Chao Praya River by longtail boat. Explore the Thonburi khlongs and the impressive National Museum. During your free time, dive into some of Asia's best shopping.
Hotel: I-Residence
DAYS 3-4 - RIVER KWAI & KANCHANABURI
Discover the delights of Thai cuisine in an interactive cooking class before boarding traditional boats to glide along the River Kwai to your accommodation, unique jungle rafts floating on the rivers edge, surrounded by towering mountains. Contemplate the rich and turbulent history of the region, as you head to Hellfire Pass and the Bridge over the River Kwai.
Hotels: Jungle Rafts, Felix River Kwai Resort
DAYS 5-7 - AYUTHAYA & SUKHOTHAI
Travelling overland through harming rural Thailand, stop at Bang Pa-In, the former Royal summer residence on the way to the former Thai capital, Ayuthaya. Marvel at the impressive ruins of the World Heritage listed Wat Phra Sri Sanphet and Wat Mahathat. The former Khmer outpost of Lopburi is illuminating. Explore the fascinating Folk Museum in Phitsanulok. Sukhothai is considered the birthplace of Thai culture and you have the option to explore this intriguing town by bicycle, followed by a trip to an interesting ecofarm, before free time to relax.
Hotels: Krungsri River, The Legendha Sukhothai
DAYS 8-9 - CHIANG MAI
Discover lovely temples at Sai Satchanalai and Lampang before arriving in charming Chiang Mai. See the city's sights on a fun samlor tour and roam the colourful markets. Admire the stunning views from the hilltop Doi Suthep temple and learn more about Buddhism with one of the local monks. In the evening there will be time to visit the famous night markets, or indulge in a heavenly Thai massage.
Hotel: Rimping Village
DAYS 10-11 - KHUM LANNA & LISU LODGE
A lovely drive past tribal villages ends at the serene Khum Lanna. After a guided bicycle tour, relish the unique cuisine of northern Thailand in a fun cooking class. At dawn, cycle along the rural country road to a local market. After breakfast, enjoy an elephant ride and some gentle bamboo rafting. Travel on to Lisu Lodge. Enjoy a guided walk to some nearby villages and a delightful dance performance put on by the children of the village.
Hotels: Khum Lana, Lisu Lodge
DAYS 12-15 - GOLDEN TRIANGLE & CHIANG MAI
After a morning at Lisu lodge, depart for the Golden Triangle and a delightful boat trip, visit the point where three countries meet, and wander through the Doi Tung Royal Palace and flower garden. Uncover the intriguing Hall of Opium and stop at hot springs on the way back to Chiang Mai. On your last day enjoy free time until your departure transfer.
Hotels: Imperial Golden Triangle, Rimping Village
Trip grading: MODERATE to ADVENTUROUS
Suitable for travellers with an average level of fitness, independent mobility; a keen sense of adventure is important. Expect lots of walking and you may need to carry your bags from time to time.
Inclusions
- accommodation: 10 nights hotels, 1 night jungle raft, 2 nights eco-lodge
- all road transport by air-conditioned vehicles
- all sightseeing as specified, including entrance fees
- Western tour leader (7 or more travellers)
- local English-speaking guides throughout
- arrival and departure transfers
- breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 3 dinners
Terms & Conditions
Click here for our Terms & Conditions
For more information, availability and pricing and options, please contact our expert travel specialists at Inspired Travel Worldwide on (02) 9449 8598 or send us an email. We look forward to hearing from you.
